Last Tuesday, December 4th, South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol declared martial law in South Korea, citing the need to protect liberal democracy from alleged pro-North Korean anti-state forces. The Korean military quickly banned protests and placed media under government control, prompting nationwide and international alarm. This incident took place also amid rising tensions between North and South Korea.
The last instance of martial law in South Korea was in 1980, during the Gwangju Uprising, a tragic event that left hundreds dead or injured. South Korea has remained a liberal democracy ever since.
Immediate Rejection and Revocation of Martial Law
Yoon’s declaration shocked the nation, with thousands of protesters gathering outside the parliament. The National Assembly unanimously rejected the decree, and under mounting pressure, Yoon revoked martial law just hours after imposing it. In a televised apology, he pledged to let his party decide his political future.
The brief imposition of martial law in South Korea has left a lasting political and societal impact. It has sparked calls for accountability and raising questions about the nation’s democratic resilience. The fallout continues to unfold as legal and political battles persist.
Political Turmoil and Legal Actions
The failed martial law attempt plunged South Korea into its worst political crisis in decades. The leader of Yoon’s party announced plans for him to step back from key duties ahead of an early resignation. The opposition Democratic Party called for Yoon’s immediate suspension, revocation of military authority, and his arrest alongside other officials implicated in the crisis.
Three minority opposition parties accused Yoon, former Defense Minister Kim Yong-hyun, and martial law commander Park An-su of insurrection, a crime punishable by death or life imprisonment.
Kim Yong-hyun’s Role and Arrest
Kim, who resigned on Wednesday after the repeal of martial law, has been identified as a central figure in the debacle, having reportedly proposed the measure. On Sunday, prosecutors arrested Kim, seized his phone, and questioned him at the Seoul Central District Prosecutors’ Office. Police also raided Kim’s office as part of an investigation into treason allegations involving Yoon and other top officials.
The defense ministry has yet to clarify South Korea’s chain of command, raising further concerns given the military’s size and close ties with the United States.
